Description
The Castlerea Railway Museum, also known as the Hell's Kitchen Museum, is a unique heritage attraction located on Main Street in Castlerea, County Roscommon. It holds the largest private collection of railway memorabilia in Ireland, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Roscommon if they have a passion for trains and transport history. This hidden gem is a labour of love born from the lifelong passion of its curator, Sean Browne, who has spent decades preserving Ireland's disappearing rail heritage.
Entry to the museum is very affordable for a family day out, with prices starting from €5.00 for children and €10.00 for adults. Because the museum is a private collection, visits are strictly by appointment only, ensuring every family receives a personal tour and a warm, friendly welcome.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that offers an authentic and educational glimpse into the past, this museum is a must-visit. It provides a nostalgic journey through Ireland's railway history, allowing children to see full-scale locomotives and rare equipment up close in an environment where history feels alive.
Detailed Inventory
- A55 Diesel Locomotive: A restored 1950s engine that serves as the centrepiece of the collection.
- Station Boards: Original wooden and metal signs from stations across Ireland, many of which are now closed.
- Railway Bells: Large brass bells used to signal the arrival and departure of trains.
- Shunting Poles: Tools used by railway workers to connect and disconnect heavy train carriages.
- Staffs and Tablets: Traditional safety tokens that were handed to drivers to ensure only one train was on a section of track at a time.
- Railway Lamps: A vast array of functional and decorative lamps used by guards and station masters.
- Historic Photographs: A deep archive of images showing the local Castlerea area and its historic rail connections.
- Uniforms and Caps: Authentic clothing worn by Irish railway staff throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
Beyond the Main Attraction: The museum is located right in the heart of Castlerea town. After your tour, a short walk takes you to the Castlerea Demesne, a beautiful public park perfect for kids to run around or enjoy a family picnic. If you are looking for more adventure nearby, the Lough Key Forest & Activity Park is approximately 16 miles away and offers canopy walks and playgrounds.
New for 2026: The museum continues to expand its private collection with new acquisitions of Irish rail memorabilia. For the 2026 season, additional historical documents and personal rail logs are being curated for display, offering even more detail for those interested in the social history of Irish railway workers.
15.88 miles
